NAN DEMANDS RESPONSE FROM GOVERNMENT

TORONTO, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Chiefs are demanding a response from both the provincial and federal government on addressing the opioid epidemic and potential mass involuntary opioid withdrawal in NAN Territory.NAN Executive Council recognizes the benefits of delisting OxyContin in Canada since the drug has caused wide-spread opiate addiction in many remote communities that have resulted in several First Nations declaring states of emergencies. However, NAN has serious concerns with the government’s lack of foresight in assisting NAN to develop a strategy to help First Nation residents cope with painful drug withdrawal.